Athlon Optics Cronus 15x56mm Binocular
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With edge to edge clarity and sharp detail enhancement, it is designed for serious glassing. It has a ranging capability of 5 yards to 1000 yards on a deer and 2600 yards on a reflective target, which makes it perfect for any hunting or long-range applications.
The E2ES lens system provides a flat field view. The ruggedness of the product can withstand scrapes and bumps of constant use over an extended period of time.
Lightweight magnesium chassis
It reduces the weight (almost up to 35%) while giving you the strength of a metal chassis.
Rubber armor
With a non-slip, soft texture for any weather, it provides durable, secure, and comfortable binocular.
Argon purged
For better thermal stability and waterproofing, these binoculars are perfect with argon purged, making them proof even in extreme weather conditions.
Specification
| Magnification | 15X |
|---|---|
| Object lens diameter | 56 mm |
| Eye relief | 18.5 mm |
| FOV angular | 4.5° |
| Close focus | 4 m/ 13.1 ft. |
| Interpupillary distance | 56-74 mm |
| Weight | 33 oz |
| Dimensions | 14.2 x 10 x 5.75 inches |
| Manufacturer | Athlon Optics |
Reviews (2)
Returns & Guarantee
30 Days to Initiate a Return
You can initiate a return for most new and unused items within 30 days of delivery for a refund
Errors & Defects
If the return is a result of our error or defective product, we will refund the full cost of the merchandise and shipping charges.
Most New and Unused
You must return items in new or unused condition with all original materials included with the shipment.
Partial Refunds
We inspect all returned items and award a partial refund for opened or used products.
45 Days to Receive Returned Items
We must receive your returned items at our processing facility within 45 days of delivery
Binoculars Returns
You will only qualify for a full refund if you refuse the item(s) at the time of delivery or return the item before opening it and removing its wrapping.
FAQ
| Q: | How do I know what to charge for shipping? |
| A: |
Our shipping rates are based off of the billable weight of an order. Please visit our Shipping Rates page for detailed info. |
| Q: | Can I have a package shipped through UPS with a required signature on delivery? |
| A: |
Yes, you can have a package with a signature confirmation for delivery; there will be an extra fee added. You may request by adding signature confirmation in the comment box when placing your order. |
| Q: | Do you ship internationally or to APO and FPO addresses? |
| A: |
No, we only ship to the contiguous 48 states and to Alaska and Hawaii. We do not ship any International Orders (Including Puerto Rico, Guam, APOs and FPOs), including orders that have any connection to International shipments (freight-forwarders, etc.). This applies to both the shipping and billing addresses. Orders found to have an international connection will be cancelled. There are no exceptions. |
| Q: | Do you charge sales taxes? |
| A: |
Since we are located in CA, we charge sales taxes only to CA residents. |
| Q: | How can I return an item? |
| A: |
If you are not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) request within 10 business days of the receipt of the product. If the item is returned unopened in the original box, we will exchange it, offer you store credit, or offer you a refund, less 25% restocking fee, based on your original method of payment. The product must be returned within 10 business days of the issuance of the RMA. All products must be packed in the original packaging, including any accessories, manuals, documentation and registration that shipped with the product. A 15% open box fee in addition to the 25% restocking fee (totaling 40%) will be assessed on any sealed product that is opened or removed from its original packaging. Please note that we do not permit the return of the following products: NOTE: We recommend that you use a carrier that offers shipment tracking for all returns, and either insure your package for safe return or declare the full value of the shipment so that you are protected if the shipment is lost or damaged in transit. If you chose not to use a carrier that offers tracking and insure or declare the full value of the product, you will be responsible for any loss or damage to the product during shipping. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers limited tracking capabilities and that there is a 30-calendar-day waiting period before USPS will initiate a trace. The customer is responsible for shipping charges both ways on returns, as well as for shipping charges on shipments that are refused. |
With edge to edge clarity and sharp detail enhancement, it is designed for serious glassing. It has a ranging capability of 5 yards to 1000 yards on a deer and 2600 yards on a reflective target, which makes it perfect for any hunting or long-range applications.
The E2ES lens system provides a flat field view. The ruggedness of the product can withstand scrapes and bumps of constant use over an extended period of time.
Lightweight magnesium chassis
It reduces the weight (almost up to 35%) while giving you the strength of a metal chassis.
Rubber armor
With a non-slip, soft texture for any weather, it provides durable, secure, and comfortable binocular.
Argon purged
For better thermal stability and waterproofing, these binoculars are perfect with argon purged, making them proof even in extreme weather conditions.
| Magnification | 15X |
|---|---|
| Object lens diameter | 56 mm |
| Eye relief | 18.5 mm |
| FOV angular | 4.5° |
| Close focus | 4 m/ 13.1 ft. |
| Interpupillary distance | 56-74 mm |
| Weight | 33 oz |
| Dimensions | 14.2 x 10 x 5.75 inches |
| Manufacturer | Athlon Optics |
-
I received my new Athlon Cronus 15×56 binocular just a few weeks ago and have finally had the chance to spend 4 days of shed antler hunting with the optics in hand without the aid of a tripod. The power has impressed me greatly, and while it does come with a bit of a weight cost compared to smaller optics, I believe it’s worth it for a number of hunting scenarios. Of course, if you’re packing a tripod, as many do with optics of this size, then the weight is a non-issue.
For the most part, most of us expect that with 15x optics, we’re probably going to need to use a tripod to effectively glass. In fact, some claim that a tripod is mandatory, but I highly disagree. Upon receiving these optics, I had high hopes that the binocular would work effectively without needing to pack a tripod on every outing, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that they do. If you’re like me and like to sit down with elbows on knees to do most of your glassing, you’ll find that these 15×56 optics can do the job. Of course, while I was pleased with the performance of the optics without support aid, I was even more pleased with the optics when they were mounted atop a solid tripod.
Here’s what I’ve found so far in my short time using these optics. First of all, I like the quality and price. They retail right in that $700 range, which makes them affordable for far more of us as a 2nd or 3rd binocular option.
For many of us, a 15x binocular is not going to be our only binocular option, but more so, it’s going to be another option for certain scouting, hunting and target practice scenarios. A scenario in-which you’re hunting more open country where most of your glassing is 500+ yards, but you don’t need or want to pack that tripod and/or spotting scope for the power. Or, if you’re a shooter who’d like to have some good optics for analyzing targets.The number one reason a person would choose these optics over an 8x or 10x set of binoculars is that 50%+ power increase, which brings a lot more country within range to glass effectively. And, the 56mm objective lens diameter does the job of gathering the light needed to allow for the higher power, longer range glassing. By utilizing these higher power optics and leaving the 8’s or 10’s at home, you may also be able to leave the spotting scope home as well.
Of course, with a larger set of optics comes weight. These Cronus 15×56 optics weigh in at 45.2 oz., which is something one has to get used to if you’re going to pack them on your chest with a harness and use them without a tripod as I have. My hope with these binoculars was that I’d be able to plop down on my butt, with elbows on my knees and glass distant slopes for antlers and/or game. However, I also needed to be able to do some glassing from the standing position, which I was able to do. They’re a little tough to hold steady when standing and glassing, but I was surprised at the fact that it’s not bad at all.
Because of the power, the field of view isn’t huge, coming in at 235 ft. at 1000 yards. So, the optics are most ideal for glassing 400+ yards. Wide open, rolling hills of sagebrush, or open, high alpine is where I spend most of my time and most of my glassing is 500 yards out to a couple of miles.While I really liked these optics during the days I’ve used them, I did find that I do need a quality binocular harness so keep them riding comfortably on my chest. The only design change I would make to these optics is to move the focus knob further forward towards the objective lens end. The focus knob, while very smooth feeling and quick to adjust, is very close to the eyepieces and I found that I can hold them more comfortably with my hands further forward, closer to the objective lens end of the optics where more of the weight is. I’d like to have that focus knob more convenient for where I want my hands.
Of course the binocular is tripod adaptable, and by using a tripod or window mount, you’ll be able to keep the optics dead steady while glassing, which is most ideal for comfortable, extended time glassing, regardless of the optics you’re using.
The glass quality of the Athlon Cronus 15×56 is very good. Compared to other, more expensive optics I’ve used, this binocular is every bit as good. And, the heavy-duty, padded protective case that comes with the optics is a real nice addition that will allow you to store them safely from damage while in your home or in your truck on the way to the mountain.
Bottom Line: I was impressed with the power of these optics and I will be using these for all of my future shed antler hunting trips in wide open country where I’m glassing several hundred yards and beyond. I also plan to use them on some of my high country, backpack scouting trips this summer to see if they’re worth the extra weight for the extra power. There’s a high likelihood that they could become my regular scouting optics, even without utilizing a tripod.
Biggest Pro: 15x power and 56mm objective lenses for long range glassing
Biggest Con: Weight and bulkiness take some getting used to
-
I just got a Cronus today and I’m impressed. Very clear image, smooth functioning and solidly built. I am definitely happy with the purchase!
30 Days to Initiate a Return
You can initiate a return for most new and unused items within 30 days of delivery for a refund
Errors & Defects
If the return is a result of our error or defective product, we will refund the full cost of the merchandise and shipping charges.
Most New and Unused
You must return items in new or unused condition with all original materials included with the shipment.
Partial Refunds
We inspect all returned items and award a partial refund for opened or used products.
45 Days to Receive Returned Items
We must receive your returned items at our processing facility within 45 days of delivery
Binoculars Returns
You will only qualify for a full refund if you refuse the item(s) at the time of delivery or return the item before opening it and removing its wrapping.
| Q: | How do I know what to charge for shipping? |
| A: |
Our shipping rates are based off of the billable weight of an order. Please visit our Shipping Rates page for detailed info. |
| Q: | Can I have a package shipped through UPS with a required signature on delivery? |
| A: |
Yes, you can have a package with a signature confirmation for delivery; there will be an extra fee added. You may request by adding signature confirmation in the comment box when placing your order. |
| Q: | Do you ship internationally or to APO and FPO addresses? |
| A: |
No, we only ship to the contiguous 48 states and to Alaska and Hawaii. We do not ship any International Orders (Including Puerto Rico, Guam, APOs and FPOs), including orders that have any connection to International shipments (freight-forwarders, etc.). This applies to both the shipping and billing addresses. Orders found to have an international connection will be cancelled. There are no exceptions. |
| Q: | Do you charge sales taxes? |
| A: |
Since we are located in CA, we charge sales taxes only to CA residents. |
| Q: | How can I return an item? |
| A: |
If you are not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) request within 10 business days of the receipt of the product. If the item is returned unopened in the original box, we will exchange it, offer you store credit, or offer you a refund, less 25% restocking fee, based on your original method of payment. The product must be returned within 10 business days of the issuance of the RMA. All products must be packed in the original packaging, including any accessories, manuals, documentation and registration that shipped with the product. A 15% open box fee in addition to the 25% restocking fee (totaling 40%) will be assessed on any sealed product that is opened or removed from its original packaging. Please note that we do not permit the return of the following products: NOTE: We recommend that you use a carrier that offers shipment tracking for all returns, and either insure your package for safe return or declare the full value of the shipment so that you are protected if the shipment is lost or damaged in transit. If you chose not to use a carrier that offers tracking and insure or declare the full value of the product, you will be responsible for any loss or damage to the product during shipping. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers limited tracking capabilities and that there is a 30-calendar-day waiting period before USPS will initiate a trace. The customer is responsible for shipping charges both ways on returns, as well as for shipping charges on shipments that are refused. |
Thomas Baker –
I received my new Athlon Cronus 15×56 binocular just a few weeks ago and have finally had the chance to spend 4 days of shed antler hunting with the optics in hand without the aid of a tripod. The power has impressed me greatly, and while it does come with a bit of a weight cost compared to smaller optics, I believe it’s worth it for a number of hunting scenarios. Of course, if you’re packing a tripod, as many do with optics of this size, then the weight is a non-issue.
For the most part, most of us expect that with 15x optics, we’re probably going to need to use a tripod to effectively glass. In fact, some claim that a tripod is mandatory, but I highly disagree. Upon receiving these optics, I had high hopes that the binocular would work effectively without needing to pack a tripod on every outing, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that they do. If you’re like me and like to sit down with elbows on knees to do most of your glassing, you’ll find that these 15×56 optics can do the job. Of course, while I was pleased with the performance of the optics without support aid, I was even more pleased with the optics when they were mounted atop a solid tripod.
Here’s what I’ve found so far in my short time using these optics. First of all, I like the quality and price. They retail right in that $700 range, which makes them affordable for far more of us as a 2nd or 3rd binocular option.
For many of us, a 15x binocular is not going to be our only binocular option, but more so, it’s going to be another option for certain scouting, hunting and target practice scenarios. A scenario in-which you’re hunting more open country where most of your glassing is 500+ yards, but you don’t need or want to pack that tripod and/or spotting scope for the power. Or, if you’re a shooter who’d like to have some good optics for analyzing targets.
The number one reason a person would choose these optics over an 8x or 10x set of binoculars is that 50%+ power increase, which brings a lot more country within range to glass effectively. And, the 56mm objective lens diameter does the job of gathering the light needed to allow for the higher power, longer range glassing. By utilizing these higher power optics and leaving the 8’s or 10’s at home, you may also be able to leave the spotting scope home as well.
Of course, with a larger set of optics comes weight. These Cronus 15×56 optics weigh in at 45.2 oz., which is something one has to get used to if you’re going to pack them on your chest with a harness and use them without a tripod as I have. My hope with these binoculars was that I’d be able to plop down on my butt, with elbows on my knees and glass distant slopes for antlers and/or game. However, I also needed to be able to do some glassing from the standing position, which I was able to do. They’re a little tough to hold steady when standing and glassing, but I was surprised at the fact that it’s not bad at all.
Because of the power, the field of view isn’t huge, coming in at 235 ft. at 1000 yards. So, the optics are most ideal for glassing 400+ yards. Wide open, rolling hills of sagebrush, or open, high alpine is where I spend most of my time and most of my glassing is 500 yards out to a couple of miles.
While I really liked these optics during the days I’ve used them, I did find that I do need a quality binocular harness so keep them riding comfortably on my chest. The only design change I would make to these optics is to move the focus knob further forward towards the objective lens end. The focus knob, while very smooth feeling and quick to adjust, is very close to the eyepieces and I found that I can hold them more comfortably with my hands further forward, closer to the objective lens end of the optics where more of the weight is. I’d like to have that focus knob more convenient for where I want my hands.
Of course the binocular is tripod adaptable, and by using a tripod or window mount, you’ll be able to keep the optics dead steady while glassing, which is most ideal for comfortable, extended time glassing, regardless of the optics you’re using.
The glass quality of the Athlon Cronus 15×56 is very good. Compared to other, more expensive optics I’ve used, this binocular is every bit as good. And, the heavy-duty, padded protective case that comes with the optics is a real nice addition that will allow you to store them safely from damage while in your home or in your truck on the way to the mountain.
Bottom Line: I was impressed with the power of these optics and I will be using these for all of my future shed antler hunting trips in wide open country where I’m glassing several hundred yards and beyond. I also plan to use them on some of my high country, backpack scouting trips this summer to see if they’re worth the extra weight for the extra power. There’s a high likelihood that they could become my regular scouting optics, even without utilizing a tripod.
Biggest Pro: 15x power and 56mm objective lenses for long range glassing
Biggest Con: Weight and bulkiness take some getting used to
Lames Nelson –
I just got a Cronus today and I’m impressed. Very clear image, smooth functioning and solidly built. I am definitely happy with the purchase!